Summary

Apologies for the audio for the host. I inadvertently had the wrong mic selected. Rookie mistake.

In this episode of The Passionate Pattern Maker, Jennifer Fairbanks interviews Cassie Castillo, a designer for Primrose Dawn, who specializes in PDF sewing patterns, particularly lingerie. Cassie shares her journey from a young sewist influenced by her mother to her professional experiences in the fashion industry. The conversation delves into the importance of technical skills in fashion design, the challenges of pattern making and grading, and the creative process behind developing new patterns. Cassie also discusses her personal projects, gardening, and her future plans in the fashion world.

Takeaways

• Cassie's early love for sewing was influenced by her mother.
• She transitioned from the fashion industry to focus on lingerie design.
• Technical skills are crucial for successful fashion design.
• Pattern making and grading present unique challenges.
• Cassie enjoys creating multiple design options in her patterns.
• She balances her design work with gardening and volunteer activities.
• The importance of fabric choice in garment construction is emphasized.
• Cassie experiences imposter syndrome during the testing phase of her patterns.
• Future collaborations and learning opportunities excite both Jennifer and Cassie.
• Creating a cohesive collection of patterns enhances customer appeal.

Links

The Lingerie Retreat

Primrose Dawn

Porcelynne

Summary

This conversation features a group of designers discussing their experiences and excitement surrounding the Spring Lingerie Retreat. They share insights on the challenges and joys of sewing, particularly lingerie, and the complexities involved in pattern making. The discussion also touches on the importance of community in sewing, the use of technology in design, and the value of time and expertise in the industry. Jennifer Fairbanks shares her journey of opening a new sewing studio and the unexpected success it has brought.

Takeaways

• The energy from people who sew is invigorating.
• Sewing retreats foster community and collaboration.
• Pattern making is a complex and time-consuming process.
• Valuing one's time and expertise is crucial in the industry.
• Using technology can streamline the pattern design process.
• Teaching others can enhance one's own skills and knowledge.
• Sewing with silk presents unique challenges but can be rewarding.
• Creating patterns requires a balance of creativity and technical skill.
• Community events like Frocktails are essential for networking and support.
• A successful business can grow unexpectedly, leading to new opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 Introductions

01:04 Excitement for the Spring Lingerie Retreat

03:46 Expectations for the Retreat

08:31 Silk Tip by Lisha

10:29 LA Frocktails with Lily

12:36 Pattern Making

14:30 The Importance of Clear Instructions

18:52 AI Tools in Pattern Development

25:50 Understanding the Challenges of Pattern Making

28:50 The Role of Software in Pattern Making

31:12 Valuing Time and Charging a Fair Price

36:31 Finding a Balance Between Simple and Complex Patterns

42:34 The Cost of Making a Pattern

49:24 The Importance of Valuing Sewing Skills

52:15 Expanding the Lingerie Retreat

Links

Porcelynne

The Lingerie Retreat

In this engaging conversation, Jennifer Fairbanks, the owner and designer of Porcelynne, shares her journey in fashion design, teaching, and entrepreneurship with her daughter, Emily. They discuss the origins of Jennifer's passion for design, her experiences teaching at FIDM, the challenges of running a store, and the importance of community in the fashion industry. The conversation also touches on the creation of sewing retreats and the evolution of the Porcelynne brand, highlighting the blend of family, creativity, and business.

Takeaways

• Jennifer's first creation was a teddy bear at age five.
• Teaching at FIDM was fulfilling for Jennifer.
• The transition to entrepreneurship was driven by motherhood.
• Community and bartering were key in her store's success.
• Emily enjoys the creative process of sewing and design.
• Jennifer's passion for fashion design was ignited in New York.
• The name Porcelynne was inspired by a compliment.
• Moving the business to Florida was a significant challenge.
• Retreats are a way to share knowledge and build community.
• Future plans include expanding the retreat offerings.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Porcelynne and Family Dynamics

02:12 Early Inspirations and First Creations

03:51 Teaching Experience and Its Impact

06:25 Journey to Pattern Making

09:40 Transition to California and Career Development

10:57 Establishing a Fashion Store and Community

13:03 Challenges and Closure of the Store

14:58 Relocation to Florida and Family Considerations

16:52 Porcelynne's Evolution and Online Presence

21:17 Retreats and Community Engagement

30:57 Future Plans and Closing Thoughts

Links

Porcelynne.com

LingerieRetreat.com

SewPinellas.com